Chronicles of a New York City After Hours Door Girl
Money, Men, and Dominance: Managing the Chaos & Commanding Respect While Navigating the After Hours Door
Follow the journey of a Door Girl introducing the secrets of New York City’s after-hours scene and keeping the balance between exclusivity and temptation.
It’s 4am in the city that never sleeps, and the party must go on.
Between nightlife politics, liquor laws, promoters, NYPD, and ever-changing neighbors, being a door girl in the center of the world comes with a unique ability to carry and hold a strong persona.
Grappling the front door comes with being quick with money and your mouth. Sometimes getting through one VIP/bottle service transaction can be frustrating because it’s not hard to imagine the condition people are in when they’re tumbling through the doors at 4am somewhere in Manhattan. They’ve likely spent bands of cash before even getting in front of our doors.
Patience and professionalism wears thin when you’re a pretty face trying to collect a handsome sum of money. A $60 entrance can turn into a $600 VIP section of demanding men bragging about where they’ve been, who they know and how much they’ve already spent during the night.
I am not looking to negotiate.
Sometimes I wonder if men pull out their negotiation tactics on me because I’m a nice girl who’s smiling and making customers laugh. However, not only am I a Scorpio… I’m a savvy Latina entrepreneur from Jersey.
Did I mention I have my finance degree from Seton Hall University? You can try me if you want, but don’t disrespect or lowball me.
If you can’t afford it, go somewhere that you can. Respectfully.
The allure of a door girl comes with a unique presence, strong personality, and the ability to multi-task while dealing with inebriated patrons. She calls the shots. Grappling the front door comes with being quick with both money and your mouth while seamlessly striking a balance between authoritative and accommodating.
“Hello sir… I’m in charge.”
In an industry and position that is dominated by men (gasp!), it’s common for customers to try to go above me. I’m a small woman with strong might, and my job is to not only collect the big bucks, but to welcome people with good vibes, and keep the bad apples out — regardless of how much money they claim to have or want to spend. I’ve heard so many creative and colorful explanations of who knows who, why, when, and where.
Oh… and everyone knows the owner, and unsurprisingly I do too. 😏
But one thing is for sure, I am not leaving my post with fresh air to go inside and flag down your friend/the owner.
And one thing is for certain, the owner would appreciate your “friendship” by you supporting the establishment you are trying to enjoy at an ungodly hour of the day. Just don’t hold up the line.
The best way to get inside is to pay with money. 💰(Once in a while AND depending on the night, I may cave in to a bribe of food, sweets, or other tokens of appreciation). 🤫🤐
Discernment and good judgment is important. And don’t even try to ask security for help getting in especially after calling me “honey” and “baby.”
The Guard (Altercation Specialist) & Door Girl Dynamic
On many occasions, there’s no eye contact with me but with security. Security’s job is to secure the premises, not collect money or be friendly with anyone trying to get inside. Don’t touch me or try to negotiate with me. This is a business. Security may be bigger and stronger, but I hold the key to the next few hours of your life. So come correct or don’t come at all.
And when the sun is out and you decide to head out — after you had your amazing time — don’t forget to tip your door girl [and security]. After all, she holds the key to your good night inside or a crappy time outside.
And…close the door behind you. This is an after hours venue not a barn.
Nightlife is so layered and multi-faceted , especially in the underground of New York’s City after hours.
From operations, logistics and staffing to marketing, audio & technology. From the first face you see at the beginning of the night to the endless memories created thereon after.
Stop by weekly to get a peek of what it’s like to work in the glamorous and sketchy world of the NYC after hours from a door girl’s point of view. You’ll read about the “fashionistas” that enter our doors, the unforgettable moments that make nights/mornings memorable, and I’ll even throw some tidbits of nightlife/after hours etiquette.
And since you’re here, click here or on my big head:
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Oh and more thing, click here to listen to the previous episodes of my podcast on your favorite streaming platform. I am so excited to start releasing new content and episodes in November on my birthday.
I can’t wait to share my fresh ideas and new projects. Subscribe here to stay up-to-date with my Medium page. Read my thoughts at your own pace. :)
